Family law cases are among the most stressful and impassioned proceedings in today’s court system. The issues that fall under the practice of family law can often be extremely personal and emotional. And frustration over divided assets and shared finances must be tempered with sensitivity for any child involved in the dispute. It is imperative to work with an attorney who can provide you with solid information and advice as to your rights and responsibilities.

Divorce (or dissolution of marriage), legal separation, a viable parenting plan, and division of assets are four of the most common needs of Davis Law Firm’s clients. Seattle Attorney Genevieve Davis has been working with clients to make these processes as painless as possible while providing clarity and unique insight to her clients. Her value is shown in her work ethic, attention to detail, and respect for her clients’ priorities and wishes.

Divorce / Dissolution of Marriage

Two people sitting while discussing paperwork. Genevieve Davis is an experienced divorce attorney in Seattle.
With more than 20 years of experience, Divorce Attorney Genevieve Davis skillfully advocates for her clients.

Those who are considering divorce, or have chosen to dissolve their marriage, are likely experiencing a severe form of emotional stress and financial drain. They are unsure of what the future will hold. In most instances, they are not familiar with the divorce process, the legal requirements for a divorce in Washington, or the best ways to proceed in the least painful manner possible.

Davis Law Firm has handled a diverse array of divorce cases since its inception. Divorce Attorney Genevieve Davis is a seasoned, skillful advocate with more than 20 years of experience. When you are a client, Genevieve will guide you through the process to ease the burden of uncertainty, and she will work relentlessly for the best possible outcome for you and your family.

When you initially consult with Genevieve, she will add a personal nature to the tedious process that you are undertaking. She will ask questions about your marriage, your living situation, your priorities, and the unique challenges that you are facing. She will bring a strong work ethic to your case, with an expert ability to solve problems and help you develop a plan on how best to proceed.

Perhaps you have made the decision to file for divorce. Maybe your spouse has filed, and you need representation. You might simply be weighing your options and aiming for a possible filing in the future. No matter your current situation or timeline, a consultation with Genevieve will provide clarity and comfort during a stressful time.

Two people shaking hands in front of a window. Divorce attorneys in Seattle can help you find resolve quickly.
Divorce can be overwhelming. Hiring an experienced attorney can help you find resolve quickly and seamlessly.
Two people shaking hands in front of a window. Divorce attorneys in Seattle can help you find resolve quickly.
Divorce can be overwhelming. Hiring an experienced attorney can help you find resolve quickly and seamlessly.

When you initially consult with Genevieve, she will add a personal nature to the tedious process that you are undertaking. She will ask questions about your marriage, your living situation, your priorities, and the unique challenges that you are facing. She will bring a strong work ethic to your case, with an expert ability to solve problems and help you develop a plan on how best to proceed.

Perhaps you have made the decision to file for divorce. Maybe your spouse has filed, and you need representation. You might simply be weighing your options and aiming for a possible filing in the future. No matter your current situation or timeline, a consultation with Genevieve will provide clarity and comfort during a stressful time.

Common Questions about Divorce in Washington

Do I need to file for separation before filing for divorce?

No, you don’t need to file for a legal separation before filing for a divorce. However, if you are not 100% sure that you want to end the marriage, then a legal separation might be an option to consider. A legal separation gives you and your spouse time to think while also determining a parenting plan, division of assets and debts, and spousal support should a divorce be the final decision.

What is the process for divorce in Washington state?

To begin the divorce proceedings in Washington, the spouse who is seeking divorce files a petition with the court. If you are served with a Petition for Dissolution of Marriage or Legal Separation, then generally, you have 20 days to file a Response. Under Washington State law, parties in a divorce proceeding must wait at least 90 days after filing and serving the petition before the divorce can be finalized. If you and your spouse mutually agree on the terms of your divorce, then, after 90 days, your divorce can be finalized by agreement. However, if you and your spouse are unable to reach an agreement, then your case will proceed to trial.

Is Washington a no-fault divorce state?

Yes, Washington is a No-Fault Divorce State, which means that you need only prove that you and your spouse have irreconcilable differences. You don’t need to prove that either spouse is “at fault.”

What marital property can be divided during a divorce?

Washington is also a “community property” state, which means almost all property (car, house, other real estate, etc.) acquired during the marriage belongs to both spouses. In addition, each spouse’s earnings during the marriage are community property. Similarly, all debts accrued by either spouse during the marriage become community debts. The court in the final divorce order ultimately will decide the division of your property and debts, if an agreement cannot be reached.

Parenting Plans

Going through the process of a legal separation or divorce is never easy. When children are involved, the process might seem even more daunting, especially as emotions and stress levels run high. Genevieve’s calm demeanor, depth of knowledge, previous experience working as a Guardian ad Litem, and 20 years of handling cases involving parenting issues, will provide you with the comfort and guidance needed to make the best decisions for you and your family.

The following items are issues commonly included in most parenting plans:

  • Residential schedulings — instead of the terms “custody” and “visitation,” Washington state law uses the terms “residential schedules.”
  • School year vs. summer residential schedules
  • Holiday residential schedulings
  • Preferred conflict resolution methods
  • Transportation
  • Extracurricular activities
  • Relocation
  • Living arrangements
  • Right of first refusal
  • Parents’ significant others and their exposure to children
Davis Law Firm specializes in family law.
Davis Law Firm is skilled and experienced in finding resolutions that meet the needs of both spouses and children.

When you discuss your parenting plans with Genevieve, she will ask many questions regarding your children’s typical routines, education, personal priorities and wants, and any special needs that they might have. She also will ask about the lifestyles of you and your spouse to ensure that your priorities and demands will realistically fit the demands of your schedule and career.

Together, you will craft an agreement that will include your prioritized items, with the goal of meeting the needs of both spouses and children. If this agreement is signed by both parties prior to filing for divorce, it could greatly reduce the time spent and the potential for conflict later in the process.

Schedule a Consultation

Attorney Genevieve Davis is proud to offer a consultation that gives both you and Genevieve time to ask questions and determine if working together is a good fit.